The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) has broken ground on its new 8,000 seat arena.
The UAAP said the project, which spans 1.8 hectares along Amang Rodriguez Avenue, Pasig City, aims to provide a central venue for UAAP events.
The state-of-the-art arena, owned by Akari Lighting and Technology Corporation, will serve as the main venue of all indoor events of the 18-sport calendar of the Philippines’ premier collegiate league and will also house its office and headquarters.
Featuring an infinity-shaped design to symbolize the eight UAAP member schools and its core values, the complex will also feature a variety of well curated commercial spaces.
The new venue will not only be the home of the UAAP and a sporting venue but also an entertainment destination for Filipinos.
Outlining the facade of the arena will be a series of LED lights which will illuminate with the colors of the winning university.
Situated at the top most floor of the arena, which was designed in collaboration with local partners from Athletica Asia, ASYA Design, R.S. Caparros Associates & Co., and Redviper Ventures, will be a smaller arena which will host the majority of the other indoor sports.
Fr. Rodel Casancio, OP, UAAP Season 88 President, said, “Today marks a historic milestone for the UAAP as we break ground on the Home of the UAAP.
“On behalf of all eight member schools, we are deeply grateful to our partner Akari for making this vision a reality.”
The UAAP Board of Trustees and Managing Directors recognized the need for a dedicated facility to support the league’s growing demands and future aspirations.
Akari Chief Executive Officer Christopher Tiu had earlier emphasized the significance of the partnership with UAAP.
He said, “At Akari, we believe in building legacies that go beyond lighting solutions. This Home of the UAAP project is our way of supporting grassroots sports development, where young student-athletes can grow, excel, and shine on the national stage.
“I am honored that Akari is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of varsity sports in the Philippines.”
UAAP Season 87 Chairman and University of the Philippines President Atty. Angelo “Jijil” Jimenez expressed his gratitude for the collaboration, saying, “We are incredibly thankful to Akari for this generous partnership. After years of dreaming and planning, the UAAP finally has a place to call home. This facility will not only host competitions but will also stand as a testament to the spirit of unity and excellence that the UAAP represents.”
The Home of the UAAP is set to become the premier venue for amateur sports in the Philippines, further providing a dedicated space for future generations of student-athletes to shine.
Fr. Aldrin Suan, CM, stated, “Today’s event is the result of a process that began with the UAAP’s need and desire for a home, and Akari’s vision of leaving a lasting legacy in the sports community.
“The concept evolved from Akari’s desire to collaborate with the UAAP through merchandise licensing, which we launched last season, and has now blossomed into this ground-breaking partnership. Today, we celebrate the culmination of these efforts here at UP.”
The new arena has a targeted completion timeline of three years.
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